South Africa call Morkel, Ntini for 5th ODI

South Africa have brought back pace duo of Morne Morkel and Makhaya Ntini in their team for the final ODI against Australia.

Written by Press Trust of India

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Durban:

South Africa on Thursday brought back pace duo of Morne Morkel and Makhaya Ntini in their team for Friday's fifth and final one-dayer against Australia at the cost of off-spinner Johan Botha and fast bowler Wayne Parnell.

Botha was reported for suspect bowling action during the fourth match, which the hosts won to secure an unassailable 3-1 in the five-match series.

South Africa skipper Graeme Smith said their success against formidable Australia and earlier against England is most satisfying.

"If I look back at the highlights over the past 18 months, I have to put the away Test series victories over England and Australia at the top of the list.

"These have been the two toughest assignments for South African cricket in the past and to have achieved both of those successes in the space of six months has been very special for this team," Smith said.

The opening batsman also lavished praise on his young players for living up to challenges.

"On an individual level the most pleasing aspect has been the way the younger players have come through. You need a hard core of experience on which to base a top team and we now have the ideal balance of youth and experience coming together.

"The emergence of these young players has also enabled us to develop our one-day brand and the type of cricket we want to play," he said.